The Vivid 2025 events you don't want to miss

New and improved, Vivid Sydney is just around the corner.

It’s that time of year again – Sydney’s favourite light show is back. Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2025, Vivid Sydney is stepping things up with five new connecting zones stretching across Sydney Harbour and the CBD. Returning from 23 May to 14 June, the annual festival promises dazzling displays, epic music performances, thought-provoking ideas, mouth-watering food events and more.

Expect eight iconic Sydney landmarks to light up for the first time, too. Joining the Sydney Opera House, MCA and Customs House will be Challis House and the CTA building in Martin Place, the Museum of Sydney, The Bond in Barangaroo and Argyle Cut in The Rocks. From captivating installations to immersive experiences that will spark your imagination, there’s no shortage of reasons to get out and explore.

1. Embark on a Vivid Light Cruise

Where: Sydney Harbour, Sydney

Vivid Light Cruise for Vivid Sydney 2024 — See Vivid in all its glory for the water. (Image: Destination NSW)

One special way to admire the canvas of the city during Vivid is on a Sydney Harbour cruise with Captain Cook . Departing from Darling Harbour, your vessel will coast by key precincts like Barangaroo, The Rocks, Luna Park and Circular Quay. On select nights, guests can even catch dazzling firework displays from the water.

Take it to the next level by booking an onboard dining experience, from a six-course degustation on superyacht The Jackson to a family-friendly two-course seating as the lights turn on. With nightly offerings at a variety of price points, nobody has to miss out on a cruise during Vivid.

2. Laugh with Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally

Where: International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour

Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally for Vivid 2025 — Don’t miss Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally in conversation. (Image: Emily Shur)

Comedy’s favourite power couple will be attending Vivid this year with one sole purpose: to make you laugh as much as possible. For one night only (14 June), Unscripted & Unfiltered with Nick Offerman & Megan Mullally will offer guests a never-before-seen insight into the actors’ careers, collaborations, activism projects and more.

It will be the first time Nick and Megan – best known for their roles in Parks & Recreation and Will & Grace, respectively – will appear in a live, onstage in-conversation together, despite spending over a quarter of a century as a couple. Tickets are on sale now, but selling out fast!

3. Witness the Opera House light up

Where: Bennelong Point, Sydney

Vivid 2025 — The installation honours the late David McDiarmid and his works.

One of the most brilliant displays of technology and light takes form on the Opera House each year during Vivid. This year, the iconic Sydney landmark will be transformed by the late David McDiarmid’s Lighting of the Sails: Kiss of Light , to honour the 30th anniversary of his passing.

Textures and colour collide to create a patchwork canvas across the facade, touching on themes of truth, fear and memory through four key bodies of work. Over seven minutes, the animation will project ideas of equality, inclusion and freedom, as well as joy, curiosity and creative rebellion.

4. Visit Hawkins with Stranger Things: The Experience

Where: Luna Park, North Sydney

Stranger Things The Experience Vivid Sydney 2025 — Transport yourself into an episode of Stranger Things. (Image: Vivid Sydney)

Adding a splash of pop-culture nostalgia, Netflix’s global sensation Stranger Things will come to life at Luna Park this year. The theme park will transform into the town of Hawkins a la 1986, with the immersive and exciting Stranger Things: The Experience , guaranteed to thrill fans of all ages.

Designed exclusively by the show’s creators, the immersive experience features near-exact replicas of the show’s most iconic locations, as well as live actors, special effects and supernatural challenges. After saving Hawkins from the Upside Down, reward yourself with a cocktail at Mix-Tape, the attraction’s 80s-themed pop-up bar.

5. Have a boogie at Tumbalong Nights

Where: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour

Tumbalong Nights for Vivid Sydney — Tumbalong Nights is perfect for the whole family. (Image: Destination NSW)

Hosted in Darling Harbour’s Tumbalong Park, the aptly named Tumbalong Nights is the place to be for free and eclectic contemporary music. Artists from Australia and around the world, from global icons to emerging Aussie talents, will take to the stage to get your hips swaying from Thursday to Saturday. DJs keep the excitement high from Sunday to Wednesday, with children’s shows each Saturday afternoon.

The line-up is brimming with talent this year – Winston Surfshirt and Jerome Blazé will bring the funky jazz vibes, while soulful R&B is delivered in droves by Adrian Eagle and Jada Weazel – just to name a few. There will also be a series of powerful First Nations storytelling sessions, as well as a diverse array of languages and cultures.

6. Take a moment with Martha

Where: International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour

Martha Stewart for Vivid 2025 — Spend an evening with Martha Stewart at Vivid. (Image: Destination NSW)

Another global icon coming to Vivid this year is American sweetheart, Martha Stewart. The Emmy Award-winning television host and best-selling author will sit down with Benjamin Law for an Australian exclusive, discussing everything from her expansive career to her home life.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from the master of modern living herself, as she takes to the stage just once (28 May) at the International Convention Centre. It doesn’t matter if you’ve come for her magazines and books or TV shows and retail brands, you’ll hear about it all at In Conversation with Martha Stewart .

7. Wander the Light Walk

Where: Throughout Sydney

Vivid Sydney 2025 — Vincent Namatjira’s King Dingo lights up the MCA. (Image: Destination NSW/Vivid Sydney)

If you’ve attended in recent years, you’ll know that the festival introduced ticketed events, much to the dismay of many visitors. But in 2025, over 75 per cent of the festival’s program will return to being totally free – including Vivid’s iconic Light Walk!

Wander over, under and through a curated collection of stunning works, from Circular Quay and the Rocks, over to Barangaroo and through Darling Harbour. Don’t miss the premiere of Vincent Namatjira’s King Dingo , which will illuminate the Museum of Contemporary Art accompanied by an original score from Jeremy Whiskey.

8. Get spooked by Haus of Horror

Where: Town Hall, Sydney

Edward Scissorhands still for Vivid 2025 — Catch Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands in the former burial ground at Town Hall.

This year, the jump-scare experts at Haus of Horror are transforming the former burial ground at Sydney’s Town Hall into an eerie outdoor cinema . Fans of Tim Burton can look forward to viewing his 1990s cult classic, Edward Scissorhands, on 8 June. Or settle in for a super spooky screening of Poltergeist later in the night.

Feeling brave? The immersive experience goes beyond spooky screenings, mixing in a variety of immersive installations and live performers for good measure. You’ll have an hour and a half to thoroughly creep yourself out before settling in for your film of choice, if you make it that far…

9. Get a bird’s-eye view on a Bridge Climb

Where: BridgeClimb Sydney, The Rocks

The Sydney Harbour Bridge during Vivid — The Sydney Harbour Bridge offers unbelievable views of Vivid. (Image: Destination NSW)

Join BridgeClimb Sydney for the ultimate view of Vivid this year. A Vivid Sydney Climb is an unforgettable experience that offers guests the chance to ascend to the summit of the Sydney Harbour Bridge during the festival. You’ll see everything from the Sydney Opera House covered in a canvas of colours to The Rocks, Darling Harbour and beyond.

Your package includes a guided three-hour climb, a printed photo, certificate, cap and complimentary post-climb G&T (on weekends). Handy hint: the first climb that departs each afternoon is the best, timed to reach the summit as Vivid’s lights and installations are switched on for the evening.

10. Skate and snack at Neon Dreams

Where: Pier Street Underpass, Darling Harbour

Neon Dreams at Vivid 2025 — Roller-skate into the night at Neon Dreams. (Image: Destination NSW)

Step from the streets of Sydney into a mail plane from 1979, which will mysteriously appear beneath the Pier Street Underpass just for Vivid. Food and fun combine to create Neon Dreams , a roller-disco diner that is somehow retro and futuristic all at once – complete with plant-based burgers cooked up by vegan masterchef, Shannon Martinez.

After smashing a delicious feed, grab your skates – the roller rink awaits. Skate and boogie to your heart’s content as DJ Bob Gherkin mixes vinyl-only beats throughout the night, followed by a milkshake or cocktail whipped up by Trolly’d bar. Just be sure to grab a ticket before hitting the rink!

11. Go gig-hopping at Vivid LIVE

Where: Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay

Live music lovers are in for a month of rhythmic bliss, as more than 50 local and international artists perform at the Sydney Opera House as part of Vivid LIVE 2025 . The line-up is practically bursting with talent, dipping into genres, moods and sounds that cater to all kinds of auditory tastes.

If you’re a fan of classical music, don’t miss Sigur Rós with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra (23–25 May). Boogie into the night with indie-pop’s latest breakout star, Ravyn Lenae (25 May). Easygoing groovers will enjoy the soulful croon of folk master Marlon Williams (29 May). Plus so much more.

12. Spice it up at the Vivid Fire Kitchen

Where: The Goods Line, Ultimo

Vivid Fire Kitchen for Vivid Sydney — Vivid Fire Kitchen is a feast for the senses. (Image: Destination NSW)

Treat yourself to a meal (or two) of full-on flavour at the Vivid Fire Kitchen , where the open-flame grills won’t be the only thing that’s hot. This year’s featured chefs are bringing the heat under the theme of Fire & Spice, which celebrates the world’s most spice-driven cuisines.

Indulge in street food from around the world, from slow-cooked barbecue and sustainable seafood to native ingredients and locally sourced produce. Don’t miss the free live cooking demonstrations either, where leading chefs may reveal a secret or two.

13. Spend a night at the Supper Club

Where: Mary’s Underground, Sydney

Vivid Sydney Supper Club for Vivid Sydney — Head to Mary’s Underground for the Vivid Sydney Supper Club. (Image: Destination NSW)

A recurring program favourite, the Vivid Sydney Supper Club is back for another year of world-class comedy, cabaret and more. The speakeasy-style bar will transform into a hidden haven of music, mischief and midnight snacks – with an incredible line-up to match.

If you’re a fan of Angela Bishop, Luke Carrol, Amber Lawrence or Mark Humphries (plus so many more), I’d be booking tickets now. Whether you pull on your country boots for Tamworth to Tennessee or dance the night away with Celebrating Eurovision, you’re in for an absolute treat.

14. Soak it all in from Bennelong Bar

Where: Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay

Vivid Sydney 2024 — Bennelong Bar provides front-row seats to Vivid.

With so many incredible events, it can all get a bit overwhelming. Sneak an hour or two of solace at the Sydney Opera House’s Bennelong Bar , where you can eat like a king against an illuminated city backdrop. A blend of art and architecture, it’s all about the experience here.

You’ll be in the safe hands of executive chef Peter Gilmore, who is whipping up four delicious snack offerings as part of a festival-specific package ($65 per person). You’ll also be treated to a bespoke cocktail named Dream Theatre, crafted with Full Circle Summer Berry gin, smoked white rum, purified guava and Vivid pearls.

Thredbo in summer is a nature lover’s dream of show-stopping alpine beauty, cool mountain air and magical moonlit adventure.

For many of us, Thredbo calls to mind shimmering slopes and snow-dusted gums, but come summer, this Alpine resort transforms into a playground of an entirely different kind. A cool mountain retreat despite the season, Thredbo summer hikes are astonishingly beautiful, criss-crossing over dramatic peaks, pristine glacial lakes and abundant flora and fauna.

From approachable tracks for novice walkers to more challenging hikes across the Main Range and even journeys under moonlight, Thredbo puts on an unforgettable show of natural splendour all summer. Lace up your walking boots and take the chairlift from Thredbo village to embark on a self-guided exploration or a tour of the Snowy Mountains’ most compelling landscapes.

These eight unforgettable hiking experiences are only available in summer and offer an alpine adventure like you’ve never experienced before.

1. Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko

There’s something almost mystical about hiking by the light of a full moon. This guided experience begins with a 15-minute chairlift ride, where you’ll admire the Thredbo Valley below, bathed in the fading sun.

Once at the top, you’ll pass rivers, alpine lakes and spot nocturnal wildlife on your way to the Kosciuszko Lookout and Lake Cootapatamba. By the time you reach the summit, sunset is well underway as you watch day give way to night and the alpine landscape magically illuminated by the lunar glow. Enjoy a hot chocolate here before following the path back to Eagles Nest, brightened by the night sky.

This 13-kilometre hike will take place on 3 January, 2 February, and 2 April in 2026.

2. Super Full Moon Hike

Super Full Moon Hike in thredbo — Take in the might of a super full moon.

The only thing that could level up the celestial beauty of a full moon hike would be a super full moon hike . Following the same route, you’ll meet the moon when it is largest and closest to Earth by ascending to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko at an elevation of 2228 metres. From such a height, it almost feels as though you could reach out and touch its glowing surface.

Given the rarity and splendour of the super full moon, limited spots fill up fast for this awe-inspiring hike, so be sure to book the 5 December in advance.

3. Lunar Eclipse Hike

Thredbo Lunar Eclipse Hike — See dazzling celestial displays.

What could be more extraordinary than witnessing a lunar eclipse from Australia’s highest peak? Whether you’re a keen astronomer or simply revel in nature’s beauty, this guided 13-kilometre hike will place you on top of Mount Kosciuszko just as Earth passes between the sun and moon, throwing shade over the lunar surface before transforming it with a deep-red hue.

It’s an epic place to witness one of our galaxy’s most spectacular and rare light shows. Apart from the dazzling celestial display, you’ll also enjoy walking through the moon-bathed landscape, an evening chairlift ride, and a hot chocolate at the summit.

Book now for 3 March.

4. New Moon Hike

New Moon Hike Mt Kosciuszko — Catch the changing skies of a new moon.

A stargazer’s delight, the darkness of a new moon gives the Milky Way full permission to dazzle with its shimmering display. Both astronomers and photographers will relish this opportunity to observe and capture the starry skyscape from the lofty height of Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Departing Thredbo Village at dusk and leaving its twinkling lights far below, you’ll arrive at the summit in time to see the sun slip away and the stars appear.

Catch this hike during the new moon lunar phase on 20 December, 19 January, 17 February, 19 March or 17 April.

5. Thredbo River Track

Embark on a gentle entry into the Snowy Mountain scenery with an amble along the Thredbo River. This self-guided hike hugs the river and wanders along the valley floor, revealing snow gum forests, swimming holes and little waterfalls that make for revitalising cold plunges in the summer heat.

6. Merritts Nature Track

Merritts Nature Track thredbo summer hikes — Stop at swimming holes along the way.

On warm summer days, venturing into the cooler air of Thredbo’s alpine tracks offers relief from the heat. Particularly if you set course for the four-kilometre Merritts Nature Track , where there are opportunities to take a refreshing dip in swimming holes along the way.

The two-to-three-hour self-guided hike meanders through towering ancient trees (dubbed the ‘Pixie Forest’ by locals), takes in stunning mountain vistas and is soundtracked by the melody of birdsong. Stop for a picnic and discover a hidden natural infinity pool, the location of which is given away by the roar of a cascading waterfall.

7. Mt Kosciuszko Summit Tour

Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko's summit. — Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko’s summit.

While you can easily steer yourself to Australia’s most iconic peak without a guide, following an expert guide to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko will colour your experience with a deeper knowledge of the landscape and its wild inhabitants. The 13-kilometre return trail puts the alpine scenery on display with 360-degree views from the highest spot in the country.

The walk begins at the top of the Kosciuszko Chairlift and takes around four to six hours to complete, but is gentle enough to be embarked upon by all ages.

8. Snowies Alpine Walk Experience

If you’re looking to truly untether from daily life and embark on a real immersion in Thredbo’s stunning alpine scenery, pack your hiking boots for the newest multi-day walk in the mountains. The Snowies Alpine Walk can be tackled over two or three days and includes nightly accommodation in the iconic Thredbo Alpine Hotel, daily buffet breakfast, packed lunch and dinner vouchers, plus daily transfers to and from trail heads in a brand-new Defender.

The two-day experience covers 24 kilometres, while the three-day experience almost doubles that at 44 kilometres. Along the way, explore barely trod landscapes, vast high-country plains and uplifting mountain horizons.

Discover the full offering of summer hikes in Thredbo at thredbo.com.au.

The 14 vivid events you don’t want to miss this year